When King Pandu passed from this world, the ascetics dwelling at Shataśṛṅga—those worthy of the highest honor—joined with the sages and celestial Charanas to perform all the proper rites for him. The great sages, equal to the gods and deeply versed in sacred knowledge, gathered together, reflecting upon the passing of Pandu. They recalled how Pandu, that illustrious and great-souled king, had renounced his kingdom and all royal pleasures. He had chosen instead a life of austerity, seeking refuge among the ascetics at Shataśṛṅga. Entrusting his newborn sons and devoted wives to their care, Pandu had departed from this world for the heavenly realms. The sages conferred among themselves, recognizing their duty: “Let us take Pandu’s sons, his body, and his wife, and return them to his own kingdom, for this is our remembered obligation.” United in purpose, these godlike sages set out for the city called Nagasahvaya, placing the Pandava children at the forefront of their company. With generous hearts, the ascetics resolved to entrust the Pandavas to Bhishma and Dhritarashtra. At that very moment, they departed together, bringing with them Pandu’s wives and sons, accompanied by the ascetics in their physical forms. Kunti, once always joyous and devoted to her children, now undertook this long journey, which, through her love, seemed short to her. After much travel, the illustrious Kunti and her companions reached the land of the Kurus and arrived at the gate of the city of Vardhamana. The ascetics instructed the gatekeeper, “Announce us to the king.” At once, they were ushered into the royal assembly hall. News of the arrival of thousands of ascetics and sages spread quickly, filling the people of Nagapura with awe and wonder. As the sun had barely risen, the townsfolk—led by their children and accompanied by their wives—hurried out to behold the ascetics. Groups of women and warriors, some riding in splendid vehicles, as well as Brahmanas and their wives, joined the throng. Merchants and Shudras crowded in as well, and none felt envy; all were mindful of righteousness. Bhishma, son of Shantanu, came forth, as did Somadatta, Bahlikā, the wise royal sage Prajnachakshu, and Vidura the minister. Queen Satyavati, the illustrious Kausalya, surrounded by royal ladies, and Gandhari also joined the gathering. The sons of Dhritarashtra, led by Duryodhana and adorned in various ornaments, came out in great numbers. Upon seeing the great sages, all the Kauravas, together with their priests, bowed their heads in reverence and sat nearby. Likewise, all the townspeople and country folk, having paid their respects with heads to the ground, seated themselves close by. Recognizing the immense gathering, the people honored the sages with offerings and water for their feet, as was proper. Bhishma then presented the kingdom and its realm to the great sages. The eldest among them, his matted hair and deer skin marking his ascetic life, spoke after consulting with the other sages: “The heir of the Kauravas, King Pandu, renounced all pleasures and left Shatashringa. He gave up enjoyments and became an ascetic, performing prescribed austerities and living on leaves, roots, and fruits. Together with his wives, he spent his days diligently, pleasing the ascetics through his conduct and self-restraint. Those ascetics dwelling on Hundred Peaks, satisfied with his austerity, restrained him as he wished to depart for the heavenly world. As he was preparing to leave with his wives, the brahmins addressed him: ‘O king, one without offspring attains no blessed worlds.’ Therefore, O king, honor Dharma, Vayu, Mahendra, and the Ashvins as deities, together with your wives. Pleased by your devotion, they will grant you sons, and you will be freed from your debts. Through our divine vision, we see such sons destined for you. Hearing these words, Pandu worshipped the gods, observing the vow of celibacy, and by divine intervention, Dharma himself was born to him as his son, Yudhishthira. Mātariśvan (Vayu) gave him Bhima, a son of immense strength. Purandara (Indra) was born to Kunti, steadfast in valor. When this mighty archer was born, Indra said to Pritha, ‘By my favor, this son is born, O Kunti, steadfast in true valor. He will conquer even the unconquerable, including the gods themselves; his fame as an archer will surpass all others. Yudhishthira will attain the Rajasuya sacrifice through the strength of his brothers, conquering all men, Gandharvas, and Rakshasas. He will defeat Duryodhana and the Kauravas; by his valorous deeds, Yudhishthira, son of Dharma, will perform the Rajasuya and other great sacrifices, always devoted to righteousness.’ And those two mighty archers whom Madri bore—Nakula and Sahadeva—were begotten by the Ashvins. These two, both of immeasurable brilliance, are tigers among men. Thus, as this ever-righteous and renowned king dwelt in the forest, the ancestral line of Pandu was restored. Witnessing the birth, growth, and Vedic studies of the sons of Pandu, you all shall continually obtain the highest joy.